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Showing results for contention. Search instead for uncontentiou.
Definitions

contention

[kuhn-ten-shuhn] / kənˈtɛn ʃən /
NOUN
competition
Synonyms
STRONGEST
argument conflict controversy dispute rivalry struggle
STRONG
altercation battle beef belligerency combat contest difference discord dissension dissent dissidence disunity enmity fight flak hassle hostility quarrel run-in scene scrap set-to squabble static strife variance war wrangle wrangling
WEAK
bone of contention bone to pick disaccord feuding
Antonyms
STRONGEST
accord agreement harmony peace
STRONG
approval authorization compliment concurrence friendship kindness praise ratification truce
WEAK
affection consideration friendliness good will sympathy
NOUN
argument for idea
Synonyms
STRONGEST
allegation assertion belief claim discussion explanation hypothesis idea opinion plea position thesis
STRONG
advancement affirmation asseveration avowal charge contestation declaration demurrer deposition ground hurrah predication profession rumpus stand view
WEAK
maintaining
Antonyms
STRONGEST
proof reality truth
STRONG
denial retreat
WEAK
affection consideration friendliness friendship good will kindness sympathy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The county has exempted the project from undergoing a state environmental review — a point of contention for many residents who are concerned about the health and environmental impacts.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

In matches between sides already out of post-season contention, the Chicago Bulls won 119-108 against the Washington Wizards while the Indiana Pacers beat the Brooklyn Nets 123-94.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Such a contention may be useful for our own personal life-narratives.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

Wingers Vinicius Jr and Raphinha risk being overshadowed by Mbappe and Yamal for Real and Barca respectively but could catapult themselves into contention if they shine for Brazil at the World Cup.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

He took some consolation from the fact that Ulbrickson had told the press that the third boat was still in contention.

From "The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics" by Daniel James Brown

Vocabulary lists containing contention

"The Crucible" -- Vocabulary from all 4 Acts

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Crucible" -- Vocabulary from Act 3

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Monster

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!